TSA grounds air cargo screening deadline

The requirement that cargo loads be completely screened is apart of the recommendations from 9/11 Commission that was tasked with looking at vulnerabilities following the Sept. 11, 2001 terrorists attacks involving hijacked airplanes. The requirement has been in the federal rulemaking process since 2009, and with TSA's decision to postpone the Dec. 31 implementation date, it will stay there a little longer.

The air cargo industry, which has objected to the cost of the requirement, said it would continue to work with TSA on crafting the rule in a manner that worked for cargo companies financially.

“We expect to engage in further consultation with TSA along with other industry partners to ensure we continue to maintain the highest possible levels of air cargo and aviation security," Steen said in his statement. "This has always been our priority, and we are pleased that TSA has taken into account industry’s views. We need to maintain this truly collaborative approach to continue improving and evolving security.”

TSA did not immediately respond to a request for comment about the cargo screening deadline.